This story is part of the October 5 edition of Sunday Life. See all 13 stories .

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Just three hours from Brisbane, PNG is our closest neighbour: at its closest point it’s less than four kilometres away. The reported dangers of its capital Port Moresby has likely put many off visiting – but this city is merely the stepping-off point to somewhere safer. Tourism is still gloriously simple on the islands off PNG’s east coast. Fly to Kavieng on New Ireland and stay in eco-resorts set on stunning beaches, among coastal rainforest. There’s WWII wrecks in the jungles for hikers, and in the waters for divers and snorkellers. Surfers will find perfect waves.

NEW CALEDONIA

At just a 2.5-hour flight from Sydney, New Caledonia is Australia’s closest international neighbour off o

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